Chris VandeVelde Back To OKC

One and done. First it was Mark Arcobello, and now it’s Chris VandeVelde. The utilitarian nature of C double V’s game in particular has lent himself to brief stints with the Oilers throughout the years. And back he’ll come to Oklahoma City. Chris is a good asset to have in your minor league system. Good for occasional callups, and very solid in the minors. His return places a legit center deep in the roster, moves Tanner House back to wing where he’s played well, and it keeps Brandon Davidson from having to dress as a limited role forward. Yes, you read that last bit correctly. After playing forward for two straight games (both wins), defenseman Brandon Davidson will get to return to playing protection.

Official Release:

The Edmonton Oilers, parent club of the Oklahoma City Barons, assigned center Chris VandeVelde to Oklahoma City, Oilers General Manager Steve Tambellini announced today.

Vandevelde, a 6-2, 210-pounder from Moorhead, Minn., was recalled by Edmonton on February 8 and played in the Oilers contest against Detroit on February 9. He played over 11 minutes in that game and served two penalty minutes. Vandevelde, the Oilers 4th round selection (97th overall) in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft, has played in 173 games for the Barons, scoring 49 points (21-28-49). His 173 games is the most in Barons franchise history.